diet & weight loss

Vitamin E is a vitally important nutrient for a fully function body, and in particular healthy skin. The Vitamin acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cell membranes from ultraviolet light and free radicals (hence why many skin creams contain Vitamin E). The vitamin also allow your cells to communicate effectively, and has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and as such can be stored by the body for future use. This is why Vitamin E deficiency is very rare.

Food sources Vitamin E can be found in foods such as almonds, seeds, peanuts and hazelnuts. Prawns and soya beans are also high in Vitamin E.

Daily requirementThe European Commission daily recommendation for Vitamin E is 10mg for both men and women. In the United States, the Vitamin E RDA is also 10mg. There are no UK set daily recommended allowance figures for Vitamin E.

DeficiencyFortunately, Vitamin E deficiency is exceptionally rare. The problem only occurs in individuals with an underlying illness such as Crohn's disease that inhibits the absorption of fats from the intestine.

Symptoms of Vitamin E deficiency include anemia, issues with the nervous system, and neurological problems such as impaired balance and co-ordination.